The first calculating machines for all four basic arithmetic operations appeared in the 18th century. They could be used to add, subtract, multiply and divide. In order to be able to multiply and divide with a machine, a number had to be stored. These mechanical number storage devices were often stepped drums or pinwheels. We get to know both components and examine together how they work.

This program also deals with the further development of these so-called four-species calculating machines up to the Schubert stepped drum machines from 1969. You can use these original calculating machines to practise mechanical arithmetic with all four basic arithmetic operations and, for an additional challenge, calculate roots using the Toepler method. As you turn the crank, it quickly becomes clear that calculating with machines not only leads to the right result. It's also fun.

You can book this workshop on all opening days except Sundays. It is suitable for groups of up to 20 people.

Please contact us via arithmeum(at)or.uni-bonn.de to find out more about our programs.

We look forward to your visit!